Probability distributions of radiocarbon in open linear compartmental systems at steady‐state

Radiocarbon (14C) is commonly used as a tracer of the carbon cycle to determine how fast moves between different reservoirs such plants, soils, rivers, or oceans. However studies mostly emphasize mean value (as Δ14C) an unknown probability distribution. We introduce novel algorithm compute Δ14C distributions from knowledge age distribution in linear compartmental systems at steady-state. Our results demonstrate that shape might differ according speed cycling ecosystem compartments and their connectivity within system, contain multiple peaks long tails. The are also sensitive variations atmosphere over time, influenced by counteracting anthropogenic effects fossil-fuel emissions (14C-free) nuclear weapons testing (excess 14C). Lastly, we discuss insights can offer for sampling design experiments aiming capture precise variance values present multi-compartmental ecosystems.